Automatic umbrella

ABSTRACT

An umbrella includes a frame assembly including a support pole and a canopy support structure associated with the support pole. At least a portion of the canopy support structure is movable relative to a central axis of the canopy support structure. An actuation mechanism including an actuator is operably coupled to a portion of the canopy support structure. The actuation mechanism is selectively operable to move the canopy support structure to at least one of automatically transform the umbrella to an open configuration and automatically transform the umbrella to a closed configuration.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of 62/724,974 filed Aug. 30, 2018,the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND

Embodiments of the disclosure relate to an umbrella, and moreparticularly, to an umbrella including a mechanism for automaticallytransforming the umbrella between a closed configuration and an openconfiguration.

Umbrellas are popular devices commonly used outdoors to provide shadefrom the sun and shelter from the elements. Umbrellas typically includethe capability to be placed in an open or erect configuration to providethe shelter and shade function, as well as to be closed or collapsed tofacilitate movement and storage of the umbrellas. Many umbrellas arerelatively large and have canopy diameters on the order of several feetwhen opened.

A variety of opening and closing mechanisms are known for umbrellaswhich may include crank and pulley arrangements, levers, and/or rack andpinion arrangements. Such mechanisms tend to be relatively complex,which increases the manufacturing costs for the umbrellas and thecorresponding sale or purchase price to the end user. In addition, therelatively complex mechanisms present numerous potential failure modes,as well as increased susceptibility to contamination and jamming byforeign debris material and corrosion and material degradation fromenvironmental factors.

Further, these existing opening and closing mechanisms are typicallymanually operated. In applications, such as restaurant patios forexample, where larger umbrellas are typically used, the force requiredto operate the umbrella is significantly larger than ordinary hand heldor residential umbrellas. There is therefore a need for a mechanismconfigured to automatically transform the umbrella between an openconfiguration and a closed configuration in response to an input.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, an umbrella includes a frame assemblyincluding a support pole and a canopy support structure associated withthe support pole. At least a portion of the canopy support structure ismovable relative to a central axis of the canopy support structure. Anactuation mechanism including an actuator is operably coupled to aportion of the canopy support structure. The actuation mechanism isselectively operable to move the canopy support structure to at leastone of automatically transform the umbrella to an open configuration andautomatically transform the umbrella to a closed configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuator is mounted to thesupport pole.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the support pole includes a mountingend receivable within a base, the actuator being connected to thesupport pole adjacent the mounting end.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the canopy support structure furthercomprises a hub, a plurality of arms pivotally mounted to the hub, atransition member and a plurality of support members pivotally coupledat a first end to the transition member and pivotally coupled at asecond end to the plurality of arms.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuator includes a movableportion and the movable portion is coupled to at least one of thetransition member, the plurality or arms and the plurality of supportmembers.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuator is a linear actuatorincluding a movable portion connected to the transition member, whereinthe actuator is operable to translate the transition member along thecentral axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the movable portion is arrangedparallel to the support pole.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuation mechanism furthercomprises an input device in communication with the actuator.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the input device is operable to movea movable portion of the actuator in both a first direction and a seconddirection to open and close the umbrella.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuator is continuouslyoperated in response to application of a continuous force a signalreceived from the input device.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuator is configured toautomatically transform the canopy support structure between the closedconfiguration and the open configuration in response to operation of theinput device.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuator is operable to initiatemovement of the canopy support structure in response to a first inputsignal and cease movement of the canopy support structure in response toa second input signal.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the first input signal and thesecond input signal are generated by a single input.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments a portion of the umbrella includingthe canopy structure is tiltable relative to the central axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising another actuationmechanism operably coupled to the tiltable portion of the umbrella, theanother actuation mechanism being operable to tilt the tiltable portionof the umbrella.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a battery pack mounted toa portion of the frame assembly, the batter pack being coupled to theactuation mechanism.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a solar panel operablycoupled to the battery pack.

According to an embodiment, an umbrella includes a support pole, acanopy support structure associated with the support pole, and at leasta portion of the canopy support structure being movable relative to acentral axis of the canopy support structure. A joint formed in thesupport pole to define a tiltable portion of the umbrella movable at anangle to the central axis the tiltable portion includes the canopysupport structure. An actuation mechanism is operably coupled to thetiltable portion. The actuation mechanism is selectively operable tomove the tiltable portion between a first configuration where thetiltable portion is aligned with the central axis and a secondconfiguration where the tiltable portion is arranged at an angle to thecentral axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the actuator is a linear actuatorincluding a movable portion connected to the tiltable portion, whereintranslation of the linear actuator causes the tiltable portion to rotaterelative to the central axis.

According to yet another embodiment, a method of automatically openingan umbrella includes generating an input signal via a first inputdevice, communicating the input signal to a first actuator operablycoupled to a canopy support structure, operating the first actuator torotate a plurality of arms of the canopy support structure outwardlyfrom a central axis of the canopy support structure in response to theinput signal, generating another input signal via a second input device,communicating the another input signal to a second actuator operablycoupled to a tiltable portion of the umbrella, and operating the secondactuator to tilt the tiltable portion of the umbrella including thecanopy support structure to a desired angle relative to the central axisin response to the another input signal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are perspective views of an umbrella frame in aclosed configuration and an open configuration configured to provideshade relative to a table according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the automatic umbrella of FIG. 1 in afully open configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a detailed perspective view of a portion of a mechanism fortransforming the automatic umbrella between a first configuration and asecond configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of the automatic umbrella ofFIG. 1 in a partially closed configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the automatic umbrella inan open configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the actuation mechanism forautomatically operating an umbrella according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7A is a front view of an automatic umbrella in an untiltedconfiguration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7B is a front view of an automatic umbrella in an tiltedconfiguration according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an automatic umbrella in an tiltedconfiguration according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to the FIGS., an example of an umbrella 20 isillustrated. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the umbrella 20 comprises aframe assembly 22 that is transformable between a closed or collapsedconfiguration, as shown in FIG. 1A, and an open or expandedconfiguration, as shown in FIG. 1B. The frame assembly 22 of theumbrella 20 includes a support pole 24. The support pole 24 may beformed from a single component or shaft, or alternatively, may be formedby an assembly of a several components. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment, the support pole 24 is a generally elongate rigid memberhaving a substantially straight or linear configuration. However, itshould be understood that embodiments where at least a portion of thesupport pole 24 has a non-linear configuration are also within the scopeof the disclosure.

The support pole 24 may include a mounting end 26 which is adapted forattachment or mounting, such as to a weighted base for example, tomaintain an orientation of the umbrella 20 for use thereof. The mountingend 26 may be located at the lower end of the support pole 24. In theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the mounting end 26 of thesupport pole 24 is received within an opening (not shown) formed in apedestal or base 28, supported on the ground, a patio deck, a lawn, orthe like. Alternatively, or in addition to the pedestal or base 28, themounting end 26 of the support pole 24 may be inserted through a throughopening 30 formed in a secondary support body 32, such as a table forexample. In such embodiments, the pedestal or base 28 is positionableunderneath the secondary support body 32. For example, in embodimentswhere the support pole 24 is generally linear, the opening of the base28 is in alignment with the through opening 30. In such embodiments boththe base 28 coupled to the mounting end 26 of the support pole 24 andengagement between a central portion of the support pole 24 and anadjacent surface of the secondary support body 32 cooperate to restrictmovement of the support pole 24, in other embodiments, the mounting end26 of the support pole 24 may directly attach to a bracket, a buildingsurface, or the like. The attachment of the mounting end 26 of thesupport pole 24 is configured to restrain at least one of translationand rotation of the support pole 24. Thus, it will be understood thatthe mounting end 26 is provided in certain embodiments to enable theumbrella 20 to be conveniently mounted in place for use of the umbrella20.

The frame assembly 22 additionally includes a canopy support structure34. The canopy support structure 34 includes a fixed hub 36 and at leastone arm 38 that extends outward from the hub. In the illustrated,non-limiting embodiment, the hub 36 is mounted to the support pole 24,such as adjacent an upper end thereof. However, in other embodiments,such as in a cantilevered umbrella for example, the hub 36 may be offsetfrom the support pole 24 and connected thereto via one or moreconnecting members. As shown, the canopy support structure 34 includes aplurality of arms spaced about the periphery of the hub 36. Althougheight arms 38 are shown in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, itshould be understood that any number of arms 38 including two or morearms 38 are contemplated herein. Further, each of the arms 38 isconfigured to pivot relative to the hub 36 about a pivot axis orientedgenerally perpendicular to a central axis X extending through the hub36. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the central axis X ofthe umbrella 20 is defined by the longitudinal axis of the support pole24; however, in other embodiments, the central axis X may be offset fromand either parallel to or arranged at an angle to the support pole 24.

The frame assembly 22 further includes a transition member 40 movablerelative to the central axis X. As shown, the transition member 40 ismounted concentrically with the support pole 24 and is configured totranslate along the body of the support pole 24. However, embodimentswhere the transition member 40 is offset or remote from the support pole24 are also contemplated herein. A plurality of support members 42 areconnected at a first end 44 to the transition member 40 and areconnected at a second end 46 to the plurality of arms 38, respectively.In an embodiment, the second end 46 of the support members 42 arecoupled to a generally central portion of the arms 38. However,embodiments where the support members 42 are coupled to the arms 38adjacent a distal end 48 of the arms 38 are also within the scope of thedisclosure. In an embodiment, the support members 42 are pivotally orrotatable connected at both the first end 44 to the transition member 40and at the second end 46, to a respective arm 38. Accordingly, in anembodiment, the total number of arms 38 is equal to the total numbersupport members 42. However, embodiments where the total number ofsupport members 42 is greater than the total number of arms 38, oralternatively, where the total number of support members 42 is less thanthe total number of arms 38 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

The frame assembly 22, including the component parts thereof, forexample, including the support pole 24, may be formed from relativelystrong lightweight materials having suitable durability and weatherresistant properties selected for the particular application of theumbrella 20. Suitable materials for the frame assembly 22 can include,but are not limited to, light gauge corrosion resistant steels, aluminumalloys, titanium alloys, wood, plastics, carbon fiber materials, and/orother relatively high strength weather resistant materials as are wellknown. Appropriate selection of materials for construction of the frameassembly 22 can be at least partially dictated in particularapplications by the desired aesthetic properties of the umbrella. Thus,it will be appreciated that the materials selected for construction ofthe umbrella 20 can vary in different applications and the selection ofan appropriate material will be readily apparent to one of ordinaryskill considering the disclosure and illustration of the subjectapplication and the requirements of a particular application.

In addition, as best shown in FIGS. 2-4, a canopy 50 is permanently orremovably attached to and supported by at least a portion of the frameassembly 22. In an embodiment the canopy 50 is coupled to the pluralityof arms 38 of the canopy support structure 34. For example, the canopy50 may be mounted in overlapping relationship with the canopy supportstructure 34 such that the distal ends 48 of each of the plurality ofarms 38 may be affixed to a portion of the canopy 50. The canopy 50 canbe formed from any suitable and at least partially flexible material,such as fabric for example. The canopy 50 offers shade protection fromincident sunlight, as well as at least partial shelter from theelements, e.g., rain, bird droppings, tree sap, etc. In an embodiment,the material of the canopy 50 may have weather and sun resistantcharacteristics to provide extended durability and usage in outdoorsettings. The canopy 50 may be provided in various colors and patterns,and may, but need not, include a logo or other design.

As previously noted, the umbrella 20, and specifically the canopysupport structure 34 of the frame assembly 22 is transformable between aclosed or collapsed configuration and an open or extended configuration.Further, it should be understood that the canopy support structure 34may further be transformed to any configuration between the open andclosed configurations. In the closed configuration, the canopy 50 isgenerally gathered for storage, and in the extended configuration, thecanopy 50 can provide a sheltered and shaded region thereunder. Theplurality of support members 42 and the plurality of arms 38 of thecanopy support structure 34 are articulatable relative to the centralaxis X such that the canopy support structure 34, and therefore thecanopy 50 coupled thereto, can transform between the open configurationand the closed configuration.

In an embodiment, the canopy support structure 34 is transformed viamanipulation of the transition member 40 relative to the central axis X,for example translation of the transition member 40 along the centralaxis X. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, as the transitionmember 40 moves in a first direction, such as vertically upward, alongthe support pole 24, the support members apply a force to the arms,causing the support members 42 and the arms 38 to pivot in oppositedirections relative to the central axis X. During transition to the openconfiguration, the plurality of arms 38 of the canopy support structure34 rotate outwardly from a configuration generally parallel to thecentral axis X to a configuration at an angle to the central axis X.Similarly, as the transition member 40 translates in a second direction,such as downward along the support pole 24, the connection between thesupport members 42 and the plurality of arms 38 causes each of theplurality of arms 38 to pivot inwardly toward the central axis X.

With reference now to FIGS. 2-6, the umbrella 20 further includes atleast one actuation mechanism 60 operable to automatically transform theumbrella 20 between the open configuration and the closed configurationin response to an input provided thereto. Further, in an embodiment, inaddition to an automatic actuation mechanism 60, the umbrella mayinclude a manual actuation mechanism 60 b, such as a hand crank forexample (FIG. 1A), operable to adjust the position of the transitionmember 40, and therefore the configuration of the umbrella 20.

The actuation mechanism 60 includes an actuator 62 operably coupled to aportion of the canopy support structure 34. For example, the actuationmechanism 60 may be operably coupled, such as via a hook or bracket forexample, to at least one of the transition member 40, a support member42, and an aim 38. Although the actuator 62 is illustrated in the FIGS.as a linear actuator having a movable portion 64, such as a piston forexample, other suitable types of actuators are also within the scope ofthe disclosure.

In embodiments where the actuator 62 is a linear actuator, the linearactuator is mounted such that the axis of movement defined by the linearactuator 62 is oriented generally parallel to the central axis X of theumbrella 20. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 3, theactuator 62 is affixed to the support pole 24 adjacent the mounting end26, such as via a bracket, fastener, or other suitable connectionmechanism 66. Operation of the actuator 62 drives the movable portion64, and therefore the transition member 40, along the central axis X,such as along the body of the support pole 24, to selectively open andclose the umbrella 20. The actuator 62 may be sized such that when themovable portion 64 is fully retracted relative to the actuator housing,the umbrella 20 is in the closed configuration, and when the movableportion 64 is fully extended from the housing, the umbrella 20 is in theopen configuration. However, embodiments where the stroke of the movableportion 64 of the actuator 62 is greater than the length of movementrequired to transform the umbrella 20 are also contemplated herein.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5, the actuator 62 may be mounted to thestationary hub 36, or to a portion of the support pole 24 locatedbetween the transition member 40 and the stationary hub 36. In suchembodiments, the movable portion 64 of the actuator 62 may be retractedwhen the umbrella 20 is in an open configuration, and may be extendedwhen the umbrella 20 is in a closed configuration. By positioning theactuator 62 at the upper end of the support pole 2 and/or the hub 36,the stroke of the movable portion 64 may be substantially reduced.However, it should be understood that the linear actuator 62 illustratedand described herein is intended as an example only and that other typesof actuators capable of performing a non-linear movement are also withinthe scope of the disclosure. Further, embodiments where the actuator 62is positioned at another location about the umbrella 20 are also withinthe scope of the disclosure.

With specific reference to FIG. 6, as shown, one or more input devices70, such as a button, switch, trigger, or other suitable input device,is in operable communication with the actuator 62 to control operationof the actuator 62, and therefore movement of the umbrella 20 toeffectively open or close the umbrella 20. In an embodiment, a singleinput device 70 may be operable to move the canopy support structure 34to both open the umbrella 20 and to close the umbrella 20. However, inother embodiments, a first input device 70 may be associated withmovement of the canopy support structure 34 in a first direction, forexample to open the umbrella 20, and a second input device 70, distinctfrom the first input device 70, may be associated with movement of thecanopy support structure 34 in a second direction, for example to closethe umbrella 20. As best shown in FIG. 5, in an embodiment, the inputdevice 70 may be a remote control separate from the umbrella 20 andoperably coupled to the actuator 62. The remote control may have severalbuttons as shown, or alternatively, a single input.

Further, the actuator 62 is automatically operable in response to asignal generated by the one or more input devices 70. In an embodiment,the actuator 62 is configured to alter the configuration of the umbrella20, and specifically of the canopy support structure 34, only when aforce is applied to one of the input devices 70. Accordingly, in anembodiment, a continuous force should be applied to the input device 70to continuously move the canopy support structure 34 until a desiredconfiguration of the umbrella 20 is achieved. Alternatively, or inaddition, the canopy support structure 34 may be moved completelybetween the closed configuration and the open configuration in responseto a single pulse provided to an input device 70. In yet anotherembodiment, movement of the canopy support structure 34 between theclosed configuration and the open configuration may be initiated inresponse to receipt of a first input signal from the one or more inputdevices 70 and stopped in response to a second input signal from eitherthe same input device or from a different input device 70. In anembodiment, best shown in FIG. 8, at least one of the actuator 62 andthe input device 70 is powered by a battery 72 mounted to a portion ofthe umbrella 20, such as to the support pole 24 for example, oralternatively, to the base 28 or a secondary support structure 32.Further, a solar panel 74 may be mounted to a portion of the umbrella20, such as the portion of the hub 36 externally beyond the canopy 50.The power generated via the solar panel 74 may be supplied directly tothe actuator and/or input device 70, or alternatively, may be used tocharge the battery 72.

With reference now to FIGS. 7-8, in an embodiment, the umbrella 20includes a tilting mechanism operable to tilt a portion of the umbrella20 including the canopy support structure 34, and in some instances aportion of the support pole 24, relative to the central axis X. Asshown, the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 is defined by a joint82 formed in the support pole 24. In existing umbrellas, the joint 82 istypically formed near an upper portion of the support pole 24, such asat a position along the path of movement of the transition member 40. Inthe illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, however, the joint 82 isformed at a position vertically below the path of movement of thetransition member 40, such as near a center of the support pole 24 forexample, to accommodate inclusion of an actuation mechanism 60.

A mechanical tilting mechanism, such as embedded within the support pole24 and operable via a hand crank for example, or a connecting member ofa cantilever umbrella are known in the art. In an embodiment, thetiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 may be automatically transformedbetween a first configuration (FIG. 7A), aligned with the central axisX, and a tilted configuration (FIG. 7B), arranged at an angle relativeto the central axis X. Automatic tilting of the tiltable portion 80 ofthe umbrella 20 may be performed by the same actuation mechanism 60configured to open and close the umbrella 20, or alternatively, may beperformed by a separate actuation mechanism 60. As best shown in FIG. 8,in an embodiment, the actuation mechanism 60 operable to tilt theumbrella 20 includes a linear actuator mounted to the support pole 24adjacent a first end of the joint 82. The movable portion 64 of thelinear actuator 62 may be coupled to the support pole 24, such as via abracket for example, adjacent a second opposite end of the joint 82.Accordingly, the movable portion 64 of the actuator 62 is connected tothe tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20. As shown, the axis ofmovement of the movable portion 64 of the linear actuator 62 may bearranged at an angle relative to the central axis X and the support pole24. As a result, extension and retraction (i.e. linear movement) of themovable portion 64 causes the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 topivot about the axis defined by the joint 82, relative to the centralaxis X.

As previously noted, the actuator 62 for tilting the umbrella 20 isoperable in response to an input signal. The input signal may begenerated by continuously applying a force to an input device 70 untilthe desired tilt angle is reached, or alternatively, by supplyingsequential inputs to the input device 70 such as to start and stopoperation of the actuator 62 once a desired position is reached. In theillustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the input device 70 for theactuation mechanism 60 configured to tilt the umbrella 20 is a switch orbutton formed on the secondary support body 32. In such embodiments, oneor more wires connecting the input device 70 to the actuator 62 may beembedded within or mounted to the secondary support body 32 and/or thesupport pole 24. However, it should be understood that a remote inputdevice, or an input device located at another location relative to theumbrella 20 is also contemplated herein.

As previously described, at least one of the actuator 62 and the inputdevice 70 associated with tilting of the umbrella 20 may be powered by abattery 72 mounted to a portion of the umbrella 20, the base 28, or asecondary support structure 32. In embodiments of the umbrella 20including both a first actuation mechanism for opening and closing theumbrella and a second actuation mechanism for tilting the umbrella, thebattery pack may be operably coupled to both actuation mechanisms 60.Further, it should be understood that an umbrella 20 having only anactuation mechanism 60 operable to automatically transform the tiltableportion 80 of the umbrella 20 may, but need not be automaticallytransformable between an open configuration and a closed configuration,such as via an actuation mechanism 60.

An umbrella 20 automatically capable of transforming between an open andclosed position provides an enhanced used experience. Further, by usingan actuation mechanism to open/close/and/or tile the umbrella 20, thelikelihood of injury to a user is reduced.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patentscited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each reference were individually and specifically indicated to beincorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in thecontext of describing the invention (especially in the context of thefollowing claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and theplural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted bycontext. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing”are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, butnot limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of valuesherein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referringindividually to each separate value falling within the range, unlessotherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated intothe specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methodsdescribed herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwiseindicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The useof any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”)provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the inventionand does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unlessotherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construedas indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice ofthe invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, includingthe best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention.Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Theinventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations asappropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practicedotherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, thisinvention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subjectmatter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicablelaw. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in allpossible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unlessotherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

What is claimed is:
 1. An umbrella comprising: a frame assemblyincluding a support pole and a canopy support structure associated withthe support pole, at least a portion of the canopy support structurebeing movable relative to a central axis of the canopy supportstructure; and an actuation mechanism including an actuator operablycoupled to a portion of the canopy support structure, wherein theactuation mechanism is selectively operable to move the canopy supportstructure to at least one of automatically transform the umbrella to anopen configuration and automatically transform the umbrella to a closedconfiguration.
 2. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the actuator ismounted to the support pole.
 3. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein thesupport pole includes a mounting end receivable within a base, theactuator being connected to the support pole adjacent the mounting end.4. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the canopy support structure furthercomprises: a hub; a plurality of arms pivotally mounted to the hub; atransition member; and a plurality of support members pivotally coupledat a first end to the transition member and pivotally coupled at asecond end to the plurality of arms.
 5. The umbrella of claim 4, whereinthe actuator includes a movable portion and the movable portion iscoupled to at least one of the transition member, the plurality or armsand the plurality of support members.
 6. The umbrella of claim 4,wherein the actuator is a linear actuator including a movable portionconnected to the transition member, wherein the actuator is operable totranslate the transition member along the central axis.
 7. The umbrellaof claim 6, wherein the movable portion is arranged parallel to thesupport pole.
 8. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the actuationmechanism further comprises an input device in communication with theactuator.
 9. The binding assembly of claim 8, wherein the input deviceis operable to move a movable portion of the actuator in both a firstdirection and a second direction to open and close the umbrella.
 10. Theumbrella of claim 8, wherein the actuator is continuously operated inresponse to application of a continuous force a signal received from theinput device.
 11. The umbrella of claim 8, wherein the actuator isconfigured to automatically transform the canopy support structurebetween the closed configuration and the open configuration in responseto operation of the input device.
 12. The umbrella of claim 8, whereinthe actuator is operable to initiate movement of the canopy supportstructure in response to a first input signal and cease movement of thecanopy support structure in response to a second input signal.
 13. Theumbrella of claim 12, wherein the first input signal and the secondinput signal are generated by a single input.
 14. The umbrella of claim1, wherein a portion of the umbrella including the canopy structure istiltable relative to the central axis.
 15. The umbrella of claim 14,further comprising another actuation mechanism operably coupled to thetiltable portion of the umbrella, the another actuation mechanism beingoperable to tilt the tiltable portion of the umbrella.
 16. The umbrellaof claim 1, further comprising a battery pack mounted to a portion ofthe frame assembly, the batter pack being coupled to the actuationmechanism.
 17. The umbrella of claim 16, further comprising a solarpanel operably coupled to the battery pack.
 18. An umbrella comprising:a support pole; a canopy support structure associated with the supportpole, at least a portion of the canopy support structure being movablerelative to a central axis of the canopy support structure; a jointformed in the support pole to define a tiltable portion of the umbrellamovable at an angle to the central axis, wherein the tiltable portionincludes the canopy support structure; and an actuation mechanismoperably coupled to the tiltable portion, wherein the actuationmechanism is selectively operable to move the tiltable portion between afirst configuration where the tiltable portion is aligned with thecentral axis and a second configuration where the tiltable portion isarranged at an angle to the central axis.
 19. The umbrella of claim 18,wherein the actuator is a linear actuator including a movable portionconnected to the tiltable portion, wherein translation of the linearactuator causes the tiltable portion to rotate relative to the centralaxis.
 20. A method of automatically opening an umbrella comprising:generating an input signal via a first input device; communicating theinput signal to a first actuator operably coupled to a canopy supportstructure; operating the first actuator to rotate a plurality of arms ofthe canopy support structure outwardly from a central axis of the canopysupport structure in response to the input signal; generating anotherinput signal via a second input device; communicating the another inputsignal to a second actuator operably coupled to a tiltable portion ofthe umbrella; and operating the second actuator to tilt the tiltableportion of the umbrella including the canopy support structure to adesired angle relative to the central axis in response to the anotherinput signal.